IGNITE Summer 2018 - Page 2

The Right Kind of Real World Lessons
What does it mean to prepare a child for life after high school?
At almost any K-12 institution, it involves the cultivation of work
ethic, a grounding in critical reasoning skills, and the foundation
of a lifelong love of learning. These elements of character can
carry a student far into his or her higher education, and beyond.
But throughout AOPS, teachers are also preparing our students
for lives of cultural and scientific responsibility. We’re launching
and developing initiatives that shape not only how students
learn, but also how they will lead their communities, and bring
about societal change.
That’s why, in this issue of Ignite, we’re speaking to professionals
who are guiding children through challenges of every scale, and
from every angle. For example, teachers who are helping students
tackle technical STEM challenges, as well as those highlighting
the moral implications of new technology — as part of a debate
team initiative.
It’s why we’re spotlighting Holy Trinity Elementary School,
where students are tackling global issues during a United
Nations-inspired challenge focused on the sustainability of world
resources. And it’s why we’re featuring educators at Ss. John
Neumann and Maria Goretti High School who are cultivating the
sustainability of interpersonal relations, thanks to a recently-
launched discussion on diversity and social justice.
To be sure, part of preparing children for life after high school
means honing their academic skills. Yet in this issue of Ignite,
you’ll see how AOPS faculty are also preparing students with
skills that do not live in any textbook — those that empower
them to evaluate decisions, understand the implications, and
bring about change that benefits their communities every day.
Best,
Nick Regina
Office of Catholic Education
2